Several bills address proposed East-West highway

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) - Several bills have been introduced that reflect lawmakers' concerns over the proposed east-west highway, a 230-mile route across Maine that would connect Canadian points. The highway would be operated privately and maintained with tolls.
The bills are being drafted so all of their details are not known. But the titles show one would take away the $300,000 state appropriation for a feasibility study on the massive project, and another would modify that appropriation.
Other bills would restrict the use of eminent domain to protect property owners along the proposed route, and one would create a special commission to oversee further study for an east-west highway.
The Sierra Club-Maine director, Glen Brand, says his group's committed to stopping the highway, and a good way is by legislative action this session.

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